chronicling a contented life as the mama of three sons

“The Unveiling” part two of birth, beads and a baby

I’m not sure when I gave the Hubs his birthing necklace. My hunch is immediately. Who could blame me? Wouldn’t you? The authentic “African bone” pieces were carefully selected by my flea market friends in their humble country showroom. Corresponding beads tastefully matched the turquoise orbs in my own necklace. And the manly black beads of alternating sizes, well it was nearly Zulu warrior-esque. Mark must have felt a surge of testosterone when I handed him the silk bag. He deserved this gift and I couldn’t wait to see his response.

18 years later

Now 18 years later, the Hubs describes the moment as “awkward” and “conciliatory.” Btw, “conciliatory” is a word he most certainly cannot spell. But what was he to do? He draped it around his neck and hoped for the best.

“I believe this moment is equally ‘awkward’ and ‘conciliatory.'”

On August 30, 1994, I went into labor while at work. I had lunch with a client at the Chili’s on Glenwood Avenue and warned her that I was having contractions. As the lunch progressed, so did labor. I paused through the pain and eventually called the Hubs and told him to meet me at the doctor’s office. Shortly thereafter, my client called to tell him to pick me up from the restaurant. I wasn’t going to be able to drive.

We floored it to the OB/GYN where it was abundantly clear Aaron would soon join the world.

Before leaving work, however the Hubs called my mom and told her to get to the hospital urgently. My mom was working at a department store in the jewelry department. Note the irony. Though she had many baubles to choose from, none would suffice. My mom told the Hubs she had to first go home. She didn’t have her necklace.

And you know what she did? That blessed woman booked it all the way to her house, placed that treasure upon her neck with little time to spare and walked into the hospital room per her daughter’s orders.

In a wistful moment, during work, sometimes the Hubs will just wear his birthing necklace and remember those blissful times :&

So what happened to Mark’s birthing necklace? Where was mine??? After all that travail and travel, my plans were thwarted and Mark’s prayers were answered. Both birthing necklaces were at home on that hot summer afternoon. My mother was the only one who wore the necklace! Without a second thought, my middle OS popped out with great gusto. He’s been tearing it up ever since.

One day Aaron will get our necklaces. I’d love to think of something special to do with them. If you have an idea, please share. They are emblems of love, devotion, marriage, family and overall weirdness. Thanks for being born Aaron, you have adorned us all with blessings. I love you and miss you. mama ❤

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10 thoughts on ““The Unveiling” part two of birth, beads and a baby”

A birthing necklace! How great is that! It’s so earthy and tribal. Your family, past and current, is full of rich traditions. I’m jealous. I wish I had some ideas for you, but I am not that creative, thus the lake of fun traditions!

Thanks Carol! I didn’t think of this as being a tradition and I’m certain your family has its own traditions. Aaron was the only baby who had this particular thing. I love hearing about the unique parts of a family. Be on the lookout for the awesome aspects of your incredible family! I know they are there because I know you!

Cindy I love your stories! Actually couldn’t wait to hear the end of this one. I love Carol’s idea of Aaron’s family carrying on this tradition, and actually giggled at the thought of him telling his future wife that those lovely beads would be a part of their birthplan. 🙂

That is awesome too Brandee! Maybe when I meet “the one” I can explain to her our family’s expectations. That would go over really well! Keep the ideas coming, I never thought of these things! So fun! Thanks!

That’s a good man! A pink Miami Vice shirt sounds very special! Do you have pictures? If so, I have to see them. I still have another story which will make your husband feel much better. Enjoy your six more days…<3